Casablanca will be the first North African destination to be served by Etihad Airways’ next generation aircraft which is fast becoming the backbone of the Abu Dhabi-based carrier’s long-haul fleet. The three-class aircraft, featuring eight First Suites, 28 Business Studios and 199 Economy Smart Seats, will replace the Airbus A330s currently operating daily on the route, and will offer additional cargo capacity.

Introduction of the 787 Dreamliner will also see a scheduling change that will optimise timings for customers travelling to and from Morocco’s port city and commercial hub. Etihad Airways will maintain an early morning arrival into Casablanca and operate a revised mid-morning return service that will improve connectivity to a wider network of destinations across Asia and Australia, including Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Melbourne, Perth, Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are delighted to deploy our flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner on yet another route that will give even more guests the opportunity to experience our next generation aircraft.

“In addition to maintaining attractive timings for guests travelling between Abu Dhabi and Casablanca, we will create further suitable connections in many markets that will benefit more travellers.”

Mr Baumgartner added that with further Boeing 787 Dreamliners fast joining the fleet, the airline will continue to upgrade existing routes with ground-breaking cabin interiors that have set a benchmark for high product and service levels in the region and across the world.

Etihad Airways’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners provide highest levels of comfort, entertainment and inflight connectivity. On-board décor and lighting have been inspired by contemporary Arabian design, including the spectacular dome of the newly-opened Louvre Abu Dhabi, complementing the signature ‘Facets of Abu Dhabi’ identity introduced by the airline during its livery relaunch in 2014. Etihad Airways has pending deliveries of 53 Dreamliners.